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HB 1681

TO ESTABLISH THE WATER AND SEWER TREATMENT FACILITIES GRANT PROGRAM; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Achor and 108 co-sponsors

House Bill 1681 establishes a grant program for Arkansas water and sewer facilities, funding upgrades to ensure clean water and public health for rural communities.

Notification that HB1681 is now Act 812
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Bill Summary · HB 1681

Summary of House Bill 1681: Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program

Bill Number: HB 1681
Status: Now Act 812
Introduced: March 4, 2025
Emergency Declaration: Yes

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1681 aims to establish the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program in Arkansas. The primary intent of this legislation is to provide financial assistance for infrastructure improvements in water and sewer treatment facilities across the state. This initiative is deemed essential for maintaining public health and safety by ensuring access to clean water and proper sewage management.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of Grant Program:

    • The bill creates the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program, which will be administered by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission.
    • A new fund, the Water and Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program Fund, will be established to support this program.

  2. Funding Allocation:

    • The program will provide matching grants to eligible water and sewer treatment facilities for shovel-ready projects.
    • Funding Distribution:
      • 20% of the funds will be allocated to:
      • Incorporated towns and cities of the second class with populations of 1,200 or less.
      • Rural water and wastewater systems serving populations over 1,200.
      • 80% will be designated for shovel-ready projects in:
      • Rural water and wastewater systems serving populations of 1,200 or less.

  3. Eligibility and Application Process:

    • The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission will define eligibility criteria and create an application process for facilities seeking grants.
    • Grant recipients must start their projects within one year of receiving funds and cannot apply for another grant until the previous one is closed out.

  4. Program Duration and Reporting:

    • The program will expire five years from the effective date of the act.
    • The commission is required to report annually to the Legislative Council or the Joint Budget Committee regarding the status of grants awarded.

Impact

  • Who Will Be Affected:

    • The legislation will primarily benefit local governments, rural water systems, and communities in Arkansas that require upgrades to their water and sewer infrastructure.
    • It aims to enhance public health by addressing issues related to aging water systems and ensuring access to clean water.

  • Emergency Clause:

    • The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or if not vetoed within the specified timeframe. This urgency reflects the critical need for improvements in water and sewer systems to protect public health.

Legislative Actions

  • The bill underwent several amendments and was passed by both the House and Senate before being signed into law as Act 812 on April 17, 2025.
  • The legislative process included multiple readings, committee recommendations, and the adoption of amendments to refine the bill's provisions.

This summary provides an overview of HB 1681, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the anticipated impact on Arkansas communities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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